The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced its plan to manually transmit the results of the upcoming Bayelsa governorship election on November 11.
Mr Obo Effanga, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for the state, disclosed this during an interactive session with religious leaders and faith-based organisations in Yenagoa on Wednesday.
Effanga emphasised that INEC was fully prepared to ensure a free, fair, and credible election, with only voters accredited by the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) being allowed to cast their votes.
“As soon as you receive the ballot paper, you can start voting. We are currently in the fourth week of PVC collection, which will end on October 11.
Those who have not yet collected their cards should visit the INEC office in their local government areas,” he explained.
Effanga urged stakeholders to advise their respective candidates to maintain peace during the electoral process.
“Religious leaders should convey this message to their congregation and politicians who are also members of the church,” he added.
He also mentioned that 16 political parties have nominated candidates for the upcoming election.
Rev. Joseph Belema, one of the religious leaders, commended INEC for its efforts, emphasising that a free, fair, and credible election is crucial for electing competent leaders.
He urged candidates not to view the election as a do-or-die affair, reminding them that only one person will ultimately be elected.
